Primary Use: Some students who have developmental delays or other exceptional needs have trouble using a traditional computer mouse. This touch screen technology allows for these students to participate in computer activities through the use of their fingers. In my lab placement, the monitor is often used by a student who struggles with fine motor skills. The touch screen has also helped sooth the frustrations of another student who has autism, as he can easily comprehend the cause and effect relationship between his selection of an item and its immediate reaction. The use of a mouse, however, made it difficult for him make the connection between his clicking and scrolling with the cursor shown on the monitor
Secondary Use: The Magic Touch screen is novel and fun for all students to use--not just those with special needs. Having the opportunity to use it instead of the "normal" computer can serve as an incentive for students to stay on-task and out of trouble.
How much does it cost? ~$200.00 - $400.00 (prices vary according to size, model, and available stock.)
Where can I find it? Magic Touch products can be purchased from a few specialized vendors, such as Touch Screens, Inc and Key Technologies. The website provides a list of store locations as well as information regarding who to contact if there are no vendors in a given area.
Light Filters
Primary Use: Students who are sensitive to sensory stimulation can be adversely affected by the bright fluorescent lights usually found in modern-day classrooms. Light filters can soften the abrasiveness of these lights so that students can feel more comfortable and calm in the classroom.
Secondary Use: Light filters are available in a wide variety of colors, so teachers can also use them to enhance the current unit; i.e. using green filters when teaching about the rain forest.
How much does it cost? ~$20.00 - $30.00 from most websites; cheaper materials (thin sheets of paper, discount fabrics) can serve the same purpose
Where can I find it? Several websites, such as schoolspecialty.com, have these filters available for purchase. Teachers can also choose to create homemade filters by using thin fabrics found at craft supply stores or local thrift stores.
iPad -- LetterTouch App
Primary Use: Students can use iPads to interact with a massive variety of educational applications. Specifically, an autistic student in my lab placement uses the LetterTouch app to trace letters and numbers. Since he struggles to use small utensils, this app allows him to practice writing by using his finger.
Secondary Use: In my placement, the iPad serves as an incredibly effective reinforcement tool. Since the students have very limited verbal communication skills, it is often difficult to manage their behavior and encourage them to complete certain tasks. One of the students is fascinated by technology and he knows what "iPad" means. Often, he can regain motivation during a tantrum or spout of apathy when he is reminded that he can have time on the iPad when he finishes.
How much does it cost? iPad: $399.00; LetterTouch App: $2.99
Where can I find it? The iPad and the LetterTouch application can both be purchased from the Apple website. Used or repurposed iPads are often available on amazon.com.
LetterSchool App
Room Dividers
Primary Use: By using these lightweight dividers, students with attention difficulties can focus more easily in a specific center. Based on what I have observed, the dividers are a practical investment because of their durability and mobility.
Secondary Use: The dividers can also be used to display labels and instructions.
How much does it cost? ~$100.00 - $200.00 (Prices vary according to brand.)
Where can I find it? These dividers can be purchased online from the Lakeshore Learning website. (Click the picture below to visit the website.)
Exercise Bands
Primary Use: When wrapped around the front legs of a chair, an exercise band can serve as an incredibly useful resource for students who need more 'wiggle room' in the classroom setting. The band provides an outlet for students who benefit from frequent physical movement, as they can use their feet to discretely release energy through the resistance of the band.
Secondary Use: While the band is primarily used during general instruction, I've noticed that an autistic student at my placement will sit in a chair with an exercise band (in an isolated area) when he is anxious or stressed. Whether discovered independently or with the help of a teacher, he has realized that taking time to release energy by kicking the band can help improve his behavior.
How much does it cost? $3.00 - $4.00
Where can I find it? Exercise bands can be found on websites such as amazon.com, as well as most stores that sell fitness equipment. The use of these bands has become renowned in the autism community, so websites which focus on autism resources are also likely to provide more information regarding the purchase of this useful device.
SPED 440: Assistive Technology Wiki
Assignment: As you are working in your school and classroom,, note the types of assistive technology the students are using. You may see and observe things such as Ipads, communication boards and even lower tech devices such as pencil grips. Identify at least 5 of these devices that are used in your classroom or school. Submit a list of these devices with the following information : primary use, secondary use, price, where to purchase.Primary use would be the way the device is meant to be used or is typically used. Secondary use would be an alternative use for the device. For example, the primary use for an IPAD might be for school work or research but a secondary use could be as a reward for appropriate behavior.
--->Click each image to learn more about a specific device. <---
KEYTEC© Magic Touch Monitor
Light Filters
iPad -- LetterTouch App
Room Dividers
Exercise Bands